Ingredient · Updated
Palm and/or canola oil
Found in 1 product
What is Palm and/or canola oil?
Palm and/or canola oil is a blend that may contain both palm oil and canola oil, depending on the manufacturer's formulation. Palm oil is derived from the fruit of the oil palm tree, commonly refined to remove colors and odors. Canola oil is extracted from rapeseed, bred to be low in toxic erucic acid.
This combination is used in foods as a versatile cooking oil due to its relatively high smoke point and neutrality in flavor. Palm oil tends to be high in saturated fats, while canola oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids. The health impacts are debated, as palm oil's saturated fat content is linked to higher cholesterol levels, whereas canola oil is often considered healthier due to its polyunsaturated fat content.
When you see 'palm and/or canola oil' on a label, it usually means the manufacturer may change the oil composition based on availability, price, or desired product texture without updating the label.
Commonly found in: snack foods, baked goods, margarine, frying oils, processed foods
What to watch
- Palm oil production can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction.
- High saturated fat content in palm oil may raise cholesterol levels.
Benefits
- Canola oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health.
Both palm and canola oil are considered Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food products.
Research shows mixed findings; palm oil's saturated fats are a concern, while canola oil is often seen as a healthier alternative.
Both palm and canola oils are plant-derived and generally considered vegan.
Sources: Palm Oil and Canola Oil
Scout's take
Canola oil is a seed oil high in omega-6 fatty acids, which may promote inflammation. Palm oil is often criticized for environmental concerns and potential health impacts. Both oils are highly processed and lack beneficial nutrients.
The case against
High omega-6 content may promote inflammation when consumed in excess.
from the analysis of Oreo Double Stuf GoldenAll 1 product with Palm and/or canola oil
Where Palm and/or canola oil shows up
- Cookies 1 product
Seed oils at restaurant chains
Scout checks chain menus for seed oils like this one: of 5,312 food items at 64 chains, 20% list none in their published ingredient statements. See how every chain compares or get the data.
Higher-scoring picks without Palm and/or canola oil
Products from the same categories whose analyzed ingredient list does not include Palm and/or canola oil, scoring 80 or above.
Scan any product to see every ingredient explained — and healthier swaps.